A Shot in the Dark - Page Text Content

1: There are many things one can do in Fairbanks Alaska for fun! Ice skating at the UAF hockey rink is a good way to show off your marvelous skating skills!! Or you can take the four wheelers out for a spin on one of Fairbanks' endless local trails. Fishing the small sloughs and rivers (which are to remain secret) is a fun, clean and sometimes slimy way to pass the time.

2: Instead, we have chosen to take part in what is a long line of Alaskan tradition and livelihood! Goin' out and shooting the ole thundersticks! Whether the weather is hot or cold, nothing but rain keeps us from shooting our guns. Here, we explore two places in Fairbanks where we may practice our Second Amendment right to bear arms.

3: No matter where you choose to shoot or what you choose to shoot, the most important thing is eagerness to enjoy the sport.

4: Of the many places you can shoot, like gravel pits, river beds and out in the woods, organized shooting takes place at a Gun Club. Fairbanks is home to the Fairbanks Trap Club, which is a PITA recognized gun club.

5: Anyone is welcome to join in on the fun at the gun club. You need ear and eye protection. If you do not have a gun, the club will lend one to you. Remember to follow the rules!

6: Practice rounds are when you shoot at 25 clay pigeons in a row from 16 yards or further, depending on your skill level. You and four others shoot these rounds. | Emily

8: Shooting practice is fun but it can get a little repetitive after a while. A shooting game mixed in here or there makes for a bit of excitement at the club!! Games like the Backer, where you shoot with a partner, or the Trap House Chipper, an elimination game to shoot your neighbor out!

9: Whether you win or lose, these games are a lot of fun to be a part of!

11: The Backer: A game played with a partner. The goal is to hit the same bird twice. You choose who shoots first, and if he or she hits it, you shoot at a piece of the broken bird. Hitting the same bird twice is a rarity and an exemplary skill!

13: Porch Shot: You get 10 shots from the porch, which is well over 50 yards away! This is very difficult, because your are so much further away from the trap house.

15: The Fairbanks Gun Range is located off of VanHorn road. It is managed by the FNSB Parks and Recreation Department. This is an unorganized venue, so you much collaborate with the other shooters. Anyone is welcome to the range, and you may shoot a range of guns.

16: Emily, shooting the .22 handgun

17: Alex, shooting a 7mm rifle BANG BANG BANG!!

18: You can buy a bird thrower and some clay pigeons and practice target shooting with your friends or family. Here, cousins Alec and Alex are doing just that! Great throw Alec!

21: Whether you shoot at the range or at the club, be sure to take good care of your gun and yourself. Keep aware of the people around you and where your gun is pointed. And remember to have fun!